Our Residential Staff gathered for a training titled, “Getting Back to Basics,” focusing on the foundations of our residential treatment programs.

Each of our programs provides unique services to the clients at each program, but much of the structure and goals for residential treatment are the same. Let's look at "Lara's" first and last days at Pathway Girls to better understand residential treatment.

"Lara" had run into trouble. Being under 18 she was sent to Oregon Youth Authority. As the Youth Authority staff got to know her, they realized she needed help before returning to the community. Being up for parole, due to her addiction and trauma history, Lara's Parole Officer set up a meeting with Looking Glass' Pathway Girls Case Manager. In this meeting after getting to know Lara, Pathways staff decided she would be a good fit in the program.

Lara had been in a few other treatment programs, but Pathway Girls was different. Using a collaborative problem solving method, at any point of conflict the staff aims to refocus on the client's goals instead of focusing on punishment.

Pathway Girls staff meet to discuss how to improve services to our clients

During Lara's orientation she met her primary staff contact, who would be there for her every step of the way. Lara was excited to pursue her education goals and sobriety and jumped in with the introduction activities, excited to meet the other girls and staff. Working with her primary, Lara developed SMART goals for her education, sobriety, mental health, and social skills.

Through group work, individual therapy, and personal reflection Lara achieved all her goals and was set to graduate the program after six months at Pathways.

Lara's graduation was marked by a final outing with her primary staff and a friend she made in the program, going out for ice cream. That night after having her favorite dinner, the girls and staff formed a "Goodbye Circle," where everyone wished her luck and offered her advice.

After leaving the program, Lara kept in contact with Pathways letting them know she found work and was starting Community College. At times, Lara still struggles with her past, but the Pathways staff is always available to her to offer guidance and support in her new life.

To learn more about our residential programs contact Maleigha Myers, Residential Service Director at maleigha.myers@lookingglass.us.

Tiberius, Pathway Girls' resident bearded dragon Iguana, is a well liked roommate who provides a calming presence for the girls.